Tags: music

AAC Encoder is essentially the same target Apple uses for Apple Music and iTunes Store tracks, the sound is very close to transparent for most listeners.

To set it up in the Music app:

1. Open the Music app and go to Settings.
2. Click on the “Files” tab.
3. Click “Import Settings…”
4. Set the following:
   • “Import Using” to “AAC Encoder”
   • “Setting” to “Custom”
5. In the Custom dialog, set:
   • “Stereo Bit Rate” to 256 kbps
   • “Sample Rate” to 44.100 kHz
   • “Channels” to “Stereo” (Auto will also land here since source CDs are stereo)
   • “VBR Encoding” to “on” and set “VBR Quality” to “High” (this gives you VBR targeting around 256 kbps, not a strict CBR ceiling)
6. Click “OK” and then “OK” again to close the Import Settings dialog.